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Uganda Safaris & Tours, Best Safaris in Uganda & Vacations

Uganda safaris & tours/Uganda tours allow you to safari to Uganda, which is among the best African safari endpoints for travel enthusiasts, with beautiful Uganda safari attractions - things to see in the beautiful national parks in Uganda which protect some of the veiled treasures of the beautiful country. Winston Churchill called Uganda the “Pearl of Africa” because of its natural setting, showing how Uganda safari tours will unveil some of the best experiences of East Africa and the world at large. Uganda lies within Africa’s Great Lakes region and the Victoria Nile of the Nile River snakes northwards, through its center.

The tropical climate describes Uganda because the equator line crosses it and the country has an average altitude of 1000 meters. For tourists planning safaris in Uganda, they will be captivated by the various wildlife species which count about 331 mammal species that put Uganda among the top and best destinations for your wildlife tours. Uganda is also an important tourist destination with various attractions/things to see and activities/things to do including different amazing cultures.

Some of the best Uganda’s national parks with amazing world-famous attractions like the highly sought-after Mountain Gorillas include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. They altogether protect half of the Mountain Gorillas in the world, thus making Uganda among the best places to do Mountain Gorilla trekking on your Uganda safari. Likewise, enjoy an amazing private tour as you track Chimpanzees on your visit to Kibale National Park.

Uganda safari tours will also lead you to unforgettable wildlife adventures in its best savannah national parks. You will explore the big five savannah animals during your private tour to Uganda and you will also have unforgettable Uganda birding experiences as you watch some of the rarest bird species like the Shoebill and the Green Breasted Pitta. While for a safari tour to Uganda, you can likewise explore the wonderful Rwenzori Mountains during your Mountain hiking adventures, not forgetting the various indigenous cultures that grant enlightening Uganda cultural tours. Additionally, Uganda safaris tours will also lead you to the impressive Jinja town, the adventure capital of East Africa, harboring the source of the River Nile. Visit Uganda for unforgettable safari adventures in East Africa, by booking your trip and tours with us.

Top Uganda Safari Tours

Types of Uganda Safaris Tours | Categories of Safaris in Uganda

Uganda Safaris

There are various types and categories of safaris in Uganda that you can enjoy during your Uganda safari trips, and below we look at them.

1. Uganda Gorilla Trekking Tours | Uganda Gorilla Safaris

Mountain Gorilla trekking tours rank as the top highlight of Uganda tours as various tourists will have the Mountain Gorilla safari on their top bucket list to discover the endangered Mountain Gorillas in their natural habitat.

This encounter with Mountain Gorillas is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

WHERE TO GO FOR UGANDA GORILLA TREKKING SAFARIS? 

Mountain Gorilla trekking safaris occur in only two Uganda parks which are;

a.     Bwindi Impenetrable National Park:

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Park ranks as the best destination for your Uganda Gorilla Safari in East Africa. The Bwindi impenetrable forest protects about 459 Mountain Gorillas, making it protect almost half (about 45%) of the world’s remaining Mountain Gorillas which total to about 1,063 in number.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has about 19 habituated Mountain Gorilla families thus making it favorable for your Gorilla safari.

Bwindi National Park is likewise a UNESCO World Heritage Site with thrilling biodiversity protecting other various endangered species that call the safari destination home.

b.     Mgahinga Gorilla National Park:

Other than Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga National Park is also the other best safari destination to watch Mountain Gorillas on your Uganda Gorilla safari as well as the only place in the country to see the Golden Monkeys.

Mgahinga National Park protects one habituated Mountain Gorilla family which is the “Nyakagezi” family. However, the park also hosts the Hirwa Gorilla family which is a transboundary group moving between the park and Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.

2. Gorilla Habituation Experience Safaris

Gorilla habituation involves tourists spending longer hours with the Mountain Gorillas to make them get used to the human presence.

This Uganda private tour leads you to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site to spend a 4-hour guided tour with unforgettable experiences of a lifetime spent with these Mountain Gorillas.

This Gorilla habituation experience began in 2014 through the Uganda Wildlife Authority. And it is the best for researchers doing primate safaris in Uganda.

The experience gives tourists more time to with the wild Gorillas (4 hours), contrary to the normal 1 hour that is used in Mountain Gorilla trekking.

This Gorilla habituation experience only occurs in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Park.

3. Uganda Chimpanzee Safaris

Uganda Chimpanzee safaris are an opportunity to explore the habituated Chimpanzees in some of the tropical rain forests in Uganda.

You will have a guided tour of Uganda Chimpanzee trekking where you will meet the closest relatives to humans that share a 98% – 99% DNA similarity.

Exploring Chimpanzees in their natural habitat/natural setting during your Chimpanzee tours is an experience to remember for a lifetime.

WHERE TO GO FOR UGANDA CHIMPANZEE TOURS? | WHERE ARE UGANDA CHIMPANZEE SAFARIS DONE?

There are different rainforests in Uganda to explore these primates and some of them include the following;

a.     Kibale Forest National Park:

Visit Kibale National Park, the best Chimpanzee trekking destination in East Africa. This Uganda national park lies in the Southwestern part of Uganda near Queen Elizabeth National Park and it protects about 1,500 Chimpanzees, giving you a 90% chance of seeing them.

b.     Kalinzu Forest near Queen Elizabeth National Park:

Kalinzu Forest Reserve ranks as the second best place to track Chimpanzees after Kibale Forest National Park. The forest protects an estimated number of 320 Chimpanzees with two habituated troops available for visitors and more than 70 individuals in the process of being habituated.

c.      Budongo Forest in Murchison Falls National Park:

You will also see Chimpanzees in Budongo Forest at the Kaniyo-Pabidi eco-tourism site. The park boasts well-developed trails for a Chimpanzee tracking guided tour, giving you an 80% chance of seeing.

d.     Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park:

A Uganda Chimpanzee tour in Kyambura Gorge is popular among visitors to Queen Elizabeth National Park. The gorge protects about 17 Chimpanzees from a single Chimpanzee family, granting you a 60% chance of seeing them.

e.      Ngamba Island:

Found on Lake Victoria, this island protects about 52 orphaned Chimpanzees and can only be reached by boat from Entebbe. You are guaranteed to see these Chimpanzees.

4. Chimpanzee Habituation Experience Safaris in Uganda

The Chimpanzee habituation experience is one of the most memorable experiences to do on your private tour to Uganda.

A guided tour for Chimpanzee habituation involves the slow introduction of wild Chimpanzees to human presence so they can get used to it.

This safari activity allows you to learn about the behaviors of Chimpanzees and it takes a group about 2 years to be fully habituated.

The Chimpanzee habituation experience occurs in Kibale Forest National Park, and Budongo Forest Reserve in Murchison Falls National Park, but it is also possible in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

This is an activity that takes a full day experience is a full-day, allowing you to closely study the behaviors of the Chimpanzees from the time they wake up from their nests, their feeding patterns, and how they take care of each other.

The Chimpanzee habituation experience in Kibale Forest National Park ends when the primates go to rest in their nests at night.

5. Uganda Wildlife Safaris/Wildlife Viewing Safaris in Uganda

Different national parks or wildlife reserves provide amazing Uganda wildlife viewing tours. The experience provides the opportunity to watch various animals including the big 5 savannah animals.

Both short and long wildlife safaris will give you amazing wildlife viewing in the true African wildernesses.

WHERE CAN I SEE WILDLIFE IN UGANDA? | WHERE CAN I SEE WILDLIFE IN UGANDA?

Wildlife tours in Uganda are best done in the following destinations.

a.     Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park ranks among the best places for a wildlife safari. The park has more than 144 Uganda mammals with 4 of the big 5 savannah animals which are the Lions, Leopards. Elephants, and Buffaloes. However, you will also see other various animals in the park like the different antelopes like the Uganda Kobs.

b.     Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is the most popular Uganda park found near the Congo border in Western Uganda and the only place to view the tree climbing Lions in the Ishasha sector found in the South.

The park boasts more than 95 mammal species with 4 out of the 5 big five African animals.

c.      Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo National Park, found in northern Uganda is an amazing African wilderness boasting about 77 mammal species. It is among the very few destinations to spot the Cheetahs and Wild Dogs.

d.     Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park is the smallest Uganda savannah national park but is rich in about 68 mammal species for amazing wildlife safari viewing.

It protects the highest number of Zebras and Leopards and it is also the only national park where you will view the Impala antelopes.

Travelers to Lake Mburo National Park can view the animals on game drives, morning walking safaris/nature walks, bicycle tours, boat ride/boat cruise adventures, and horseback riding.

e.      Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is the only Uganda safari destination to view the Southern white Rhinos that live in the wild. Visitors to the sanctuary are usually on an en-route drive stop to or from Murchison Falls National Park.

6. Uganda Birding Safaris | Uganda Birding Tours

Uganda is one of the best safari destinations for birding safaris to watch birds in their natural habitats as the country hosts about 1090 bird species.

The country is also home to 24 Albertine Rift endemic birds while the rest can be seen in other East African destinations like Rwanda, DR Congo, and Burundi.

Visit Uganda for amazing bird watching experiences in these top birding destinations.

a.  QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK UGANDA

Queen Elizabeth National Park ranks among the best birding destinations during African tours. The park protects more than 600 bird species, the checklist of any birding destination in East Africa and they can be seen in the different biomes of the park including the savannahs, forests, freshwater bodies, and the crater lakes.

b. BWINDI IMPENETRABLE NATIONAL PARK

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts about 350 bird species with all the 24 Albertine Rift endemics, making it an ideal place to spot various birds.

c.   MURCHISON FALLS NATIONAL PARK

Murchison Falls National Park is another top birding destination with about 556 bird species, where you will view different birds such as the African Fish Eagles near the Nile Albert Delta.

For memorable tours, birding experiences in the park are usually combined with a wildlife safari.

d. SEMULIKI NATIONAL PARK

Also known as “the birders’ paradise” because of its unique bird, Semuliki National Park in Western Uganda protects about 441 bid species and it lies on the Albertine rift valley floor. The park is famous for protecting the Congo biome species and the Albertine Rift endemics.

e.   MABAMBA BAY WETLAND

Mabamba Bay Wetland is one of the best Uganda birding destinations with high chances of spotting the Shoebill, African Fish Eagles, and other wading birds.

f.    KIBALE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

Kibale Forest National Park is another unique birding destination with more than 375 bird species, thus among the most treasured birding destinations when you visit Uganda.

You will see some of the most sought-after birds like the Green Breasted Pitta.

g.  MGAHINGA GORILLA NATIONAL PARK

With about 180 species of birds, Mgahinga National Park also protects birds that are rare to spot in other areas.

Some birds to view in the park include Cape Robin, Brown Woodland Warbler, White-starred Robin, and the Cinnamon Bracken Warbler, among others.

h. BUDONGO FOREST

Budongo Forest is a tropical rainforest with more than 350 species of birds some of which are endemic to only the forest.

Lying at the edge of the Albertine Rift Valley floor and extending to Murchison Falls National Park, it is also a great place to trek Chimpanzees.

i.     LAKE MBURO NATIONAL PARK

More than 351 species of birds make Lake Mburo National Park an amazing birding where you will see various bird species including the African Fish Eagles.

j.    RWENZORI MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK

Rwenzori Mountains NP in Western Uganda is home to more than 177 Uganda species of birds that you can best spot during a hiking adventure.

7. Uganda Culture Safaris | Uganda Cultural Tours and Community Visits

Uganda culture safaris/Uganda cultural tours allow you to explore different cultures, norms, and ways of the Uganda people, especially indigenous tribes like the Karamojong, IK, and the Batwa.

Uganda has more than 56 tribes that speak different languages and have different lifestyles. Thus, you will be able to explore their traditional ways like Music Dance, Drama, and folktales.

Destinations like the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Mgahinga Park are all favorable destinations for your birding safaris.

Below are the most authentic cultural tour experiences;

a.     The Batwa Trail:

The Batwa community is a hunter-gatherer group that once lived in the forests of the Virunga Mountains for hundreds of years.

They, therefore, lived in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park but were evicted due to the need to create the parks by the government.

b.     The Nomadic Pastoralists of North Eastern Uganda:

The Karamojong are one of the nomadic indigenous tribes, similar to the Masai of Kenya as well as the IK tribes.

In your Uganda cultural tour, you will be able to also explore different tribes and farmers around Queen Elizabeth National Park and other destinations like the Uganda Museum. Also, visit the Amabere Ga Nyinamwiru near Fort Portal to learn more about this cultural site.

8. Mountain Climbing and Hiking Tours in Uganda

The Uganda Mountain hiking tours will give you the chance to climb different Mountain ranges in the country counting various peaks like the Rwenzori Mountains, Mountain Elgon, and the Virunga ranges.

The Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the mountains of the moon, are among the highest African Mountains well known for their unique flora and fauna, plus their snowcapped peaks.

Mountain Elgon has the second biggest volcanic caldera in Africa with the largest volcanic base that you will see on your Mountain hiking experiences.

Likewise, explore 3 Virunga volcanoes for volcano hiking, Mountain Morungule in Kidepo National Park, and Mountain Moroto, among others.

9. Fishing Safaris in Uganda

Uganda fishing safaris provide the best sport fishing in various freshwater lakes.

With about 350 fish species, this activity will allow you to fish for the Nile Perch which weighs up to 200kg, Tilapia, Catfish, Tigerfish, Mudfish, and the Rainbow Trout fish, among others.

During fishing tours in Uganda, tourists can always use various methods of catching fish in Uganda. The most commonly used method of catching fish is through the bait.

Below are the best fishing destinations in Uganda;

·        Lake Victoria

·        Murchison Falls National Park

·        Source of River Nile in  Jinja

·        Ssesse Islands

·        Karuma Falls

·        Lake Mburo National Park

·        Sipi Falls

10.      Boat Cruise Safaris in Uganda

Uganda boat cruise safaris occur in the fresh waters of the country allowing you to explore various wildlife like Hippos, Crocodiles, and various other animals that drink or bathe at the water banks including Elephants, various Antelope species, and water birds.

Where to Enjoy Boat Safaris in Uganda?

Below are the various places to enjoy a boat ride/boat cruise safari in Uganda.

·        Lake Victoria

·        Murchison Falls National Park

·        Jinja source of River Nile

·        Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park

·        Lake Mburo in Lake Mburo National Park

·        Lake Bunyonyi

11.      Uganda Adventure Safaris and Tours

Uganda Adventure safaris and Uganda tours will give you challenging but exciting adventures in national parks, game reserves, and different cities or towns.

Below, we write about the best and most famous wild adventure destinations of Uganda;

·        White water rafting at the River Nile source

·        Horseback riding in Jinja town and Lake Mburo National Park

·        Bungee jumping at River Nile source in Jinja

·        Zip lining on Lake Bunyonyi and Jinja town

·        Squad biking

·        Tubing on the Victoria Nile

·        Kayaking on Victoria Nile

·        Cycling, commonly done at the Mpanga tea estates in Fort Portal town

12.      Agro Tourism Uganda Tours

Agro tourism avails the opportunity of learning about plants, crops, and farming practices in both small-scale and large-scale Uganda farms.

The rural areas have the most number and best places for agricultural tours, scenery, and various amazing landscapes.

On your agricultural tours, explore the tea estates in Fort Portal, coffee plantations in Queen Elizabeth National Park, the banana plantations in western Uganda, cotton farms, Agricultural research institutes, livestock/cattle farms near Lake Mburo National Park, Cocoa, Fish, and fruit farms among others.

13.      Kampala Walking Tour in Uganda

Discover the various tourist attractions in Kampala during a Kampala walking tour. This Ugandan capital since 1962 has 7 hills covered with red-tile villas and trees surrounding its urban center with modern skyscrapers.

Below are major places to visit on your Kampala walking tour;

·        Kasubi tombs

·        Nakasero and Owino Markets, among others

·        Uganda Museum

·        Kabaka’s palace

·        Gadaffi Mosque

·        Rubaga Hill with the Rubaga Cathedral, a celebrated Roman Catholic Church

·        Namirembe Cathedral

·        Uganda Martyrs Shrine Namugongo

·        Ndere Cultural Center

·        Baha’i Temple

Uganda Tourism Attractions | Things to See on Safaris in Uganda?

Visit Uganda to experience some of the best tourist attractions in the African continent.

Some of the best and top attractions in Uganda include;

a. Uganda Animals/Animals of Uganda

Uganda has more than 342 animal species ranging from the famous primates, carnivores, herbivores, and reptiles. Many of these wild animals stay in different parks and wildlife reserves.

The primate famous country protects the Mountain Gorillas, Chimpanzees, and Bush Baby, to mention but a few, found in the tropical rainforests of Uganda.

You will also view the big 5 of the park which are the Lions, Elephants, Leopards, Rhinos, and Buffaloes, among others.

There are also other animals in the country including the different Monkey species, Elephants, Hippos, Hyenas, Cheetahs, and various antelope species. Explore these animals in famous wildlife destinations like Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, and many others.

b. Uganda Birds | Birds in Uganda

With more than 1090 species of birds, 150 that are not in any other country in East Africa, and various endemics and migratory birds, Uganda boasts among the best birding destinations in Africa.

Below are some of the most notable and sought-after birds of Uganda;

·        Shoebill

·        Green Breasted Pitta

·        Grey Crowned Cranes

·        African Broadbill

·        Great Blue Turaco

·        Common Ostrich

·        Black-and-white Casqued Hornbill

·        Long-crested Eagle

·        Secretary Bird

·        African Eagle, and many others

c.  Uganda Mountains

Uganda is a land of Mountains, and you will see various remarkable mountains in the country during your safari in Uganda.

There are over 2,854 mountains in the country with the most famous one being the Rwenzori Mountain ranges.

These Uganda Mountains provide beautiful panoramic views across savannah landscapes, rivers, lakes, and forests to give you amazing scenery.

Below are some of the Mountains in Uganda;

Rwenzori Mountains; also called the “Mountains of the Moon” in Western Uganda is part of the Rwenzori Mountains National Park.

The Rwenzori Mountains are a block of 28 snowcapped mountains, forming the shadow of Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Mountain Elgon; an extinct shield volcano, stands on the Uganda-Kenya border at the distant Eastern Uganda.

Virunga Mountains; are in Southwestern Uganda on the border of Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Rwanda. These are Mount Gahinga, Mount Sabyinyo, and Mount Muhabura, which form a chain of 8 mountains in the region.

Other Mountains in Uganda are Mountain Moroto, Mountain Kadam, Mountain Morungule, and Mountain Napak, among others.

d. Lakes and Rivers in Uganda

Because Uganda sits in Africa’s great lakes region, about a fifth of the surface area of the country has open waters.

Tourists on Uganda tours can explore some of the 165 lakes of the country, both the fresh waters and crater lakes.

Some of these lakes include

·        Lake Victoria, the largest freshwater lake in Africa

·        Lake Bunyonyi which is near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

·        Lake Edward and Lake George in Queen Elizabeth National Park

·        Lake Albert

·        Lake Mburo in Lake Mburo National Park

·        Lake Kyoga

·        Lake Mutanda

·        Lake Opeta

·        Lake Bisina

Some rivers to see in the country include;

·        River Nile, the world’s longest river

·        River Semuliki

·        River Sipi

·        River Katonga

·        River Kagera

·        River Pager

·        River Ishasha

·        River Kafu

Safari Activities | Things to Do in Uganda during Uganda Tours

Enjoy the various amazing safari activities that Uganda offers in the African continent as seen below.

a. Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Mountain Gorilla trekking in Uganda is the highlight of many Uganda safari holidays and an African safari tour leads you to see the endangered Mountain Gorillas.

Uganda ranks as the best destination in East Africa to track Mountain Gorillas as it protects about half of the remaining and surviving Mountain Gorillas of the world.

This safari activity only occurs in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla NP.

b. Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda

Track Chimpanzees in their natural habitat on your Uganda primate safaris that will lead you to tropical rainforests to find Chimpanzees and spend an hour with them. The activity is best done in Kibale National Park.

Nonetheless, you can also do it in Kalinzu Forest near Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bundongo Forest in Murchison Falls National Park, and Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

c.  Bird Watching in Uganda

Birding is one of the amazing safari activities in Uganda, with more than 1090 species of birds including 24 Albertine rift endemics.

Notable and most sought-after birds among others include Shoebill, Green Breasted Pitta, Grey Crowned Cranes, Long Crested Eagle, and the Great Blue Turaco, among others.

Uganda bird watching is best done in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park, and Lake Mburo National Park.

d. Safari Game Drives

This best and most famous way to view the wild animals of Uganda in professional game drive vehicles. There are various game drive tracks to bring you closer to the wild animals and even take their amazing photos.

Game drives in Uganda are best done in the savannah parks which include Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kidepo National Park, and Lake Mburo National Park.

e.  Boat Cruises in Uganda

Boat cruise adventures occur on some of the freshwater bodies of the park, giving amazing scenery and views of the aquatic wildlife.

This wild adventure is best done in Murchison National Park to the bottom of Murchison Falls, along Kazinga Chanel in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, Lake Victoria, and Lake Bunyonyi.

There are various other safari activities that you can do on your Uganda trips and some of them include,

1.      Gorilla habituation experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

2.      Chimpanzee habituation in Kibale Forest National Park

3.      Rhino tracking experienced in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

4.      Cultural encounters

5.      Mountain climbing/volcano hiking

6.      Walking safaris/Nature walks

7.      White water rafting

8.      Sports fishing

9.      Horseback tours

10.  Zip lining on Lake Bunyonyi

11.  Kayaking, and many others

Where to Go for Safaris in Uganda | Places to Visit during Uganda Tours

Best places to go while on a Uganda Safari Tour

While planning a Uganda private tour or group safari, you will need to know the best places to go for your trip to Uganda. These are majorly the national parks and wildlife reserves.

Nonetheless, some remarkable cities and towns also provide amazing attractions and activities for your Uganda tours.

Below are some of the best places to visit for your African safari tour in Uganda

1. National Parks of Uganda | National Parks in Uganda | Uganda National Parks

There are 10 national parks in Uganda, the best destinations to visit during your Uganda tours. The parks will provide you with the best private tour with wild adventure experiences to enjoy.

Below are all the Uganda parks:

a.  QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK

Queen Elizabeth National Park, covering an area of 1,980 km2 is in western Uganda and is the most famous Uganda park to see the tree climbing Lions. It is also the second largest Uganda park after Murchison Falls National Park and protects the highest bird checklist in East Africa, that is, more than 600 species of birds.

b. BWINDI IMPENETRABLE NATIONAL PARK

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is the best place for a primate tour, especially Mountain Gorilla trekking. It has 459 endangered Mountain Gorillas almost half of the world’s population.

c.   MURCHISON FALLS NATIONAL PARK

Murchison Falls National Park is the largest national park in Uganda covering an area of 3,840 km2 and is famous for its powerful and famous waterfalls. The park boasts over 144 mammal species and 556 species of birds including the elusive Shoebill.

d. KIBALE NATIONAL PARK

Also situated in Western Uganda, Kibale National Park is found north of Queen Elizabeth National Park near Fort Portal town.

Kibale National Park is the primate capital of Africa and the best place for primate tours, especially for visitors that would like to track Chimpanzees.

e.   KIDEPO VALLEY NATIONAL PARK

Kidepo National Park ranks among the best destinations for amazing scenery, harboring about 70 mammal species, 400 species of birds, and 2 seasonal rivers. The park is considered one of the best African parks, with the best wilderness experiences.

f.    LAKE MBURO NATIONAL PARK

Lake Mburo National Park is the smallest savannah national park, covering an area of 370 Km2. The park protects about 350 species of birds and 68 mammal species with the highest number of Zebras, Leopards, and the only national park to see the Impalas antelopes.

The park is an ideal place for the breathtaking morning walking tour/nature walks.

g.  RWENZORI MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK

Rwenzori Mountains NP lies in western Uganda with views of Fort Portal. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site with unique animals (60 mammal species and 200 species of birds).

The peaks of the mountains are snowcapped and they have the highest mountain being the Margherita peak.

h. MGAHINGA GORILLA NATIONAL PARK

Mgahinga Gorilla NP is found in southwestern Uganda and is home to the endangered Mountain Gorillas and Golden Monkeys. It is the smallest Uganda park also with rich animal and bird life to view.

i.   SEMULIKI NATIONAL PARK

Semuliki National Park is an extension of the great Congo Ituri Forest and it covers an area of 220 km2, a famous birding destination for its special birds including the rare Congo biome species and the Albertine Rift endemics.

j.    MOUNTAIN ELGON NATIONAL PARK

Found in the far East of Uganda the park protects about 300 species of birds and has the largest Mountain Caldera in the entire world.

Mount Elgon National Park protects Buffaloes, Monkey species, Elephants, and other wildlife that you can view on your walking safari.

2. Uganda Wildlife Reserves

Uganda has 12 Wildlife Reserves all managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Below are the best wildlife reserves.

·        Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve in Northeastern Uganda

·        Katonga Game Reserve

·        Matheniko Wildlife Reserve in northern eastern Uganda

·        Kyambura Game Reserve

·        Toro-Semuliki Wildlife Reserve

·        Karuma Wildlife Reserve

·        Bugungu Game Reserve

·        Kigezi Game Reserve

·        Bokora Wildlife Reserve

·        Kabwoya Game Reserve

·        Ajai Wildlife Reserve

·        East-Madi Wildlife Reserve

3. Uganda Sanctuaries

There are 8 wildlife sanctuaries in Uganda with amazing wildlife, landscapes, and scenery.

Nonetheless, two of the most visited sanctuaries in Uganda include;

a.     Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary:

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is the only Uganda safari destination where you will spot about 32 wild Southern White Rhinos. It is found in Nakasongola District en route to or from Murchison Falls National Park or northern Uganda.

b.     Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary:

Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary sits on the Kibale National Park edge just a few kilometers away from Fort Portal.

It is majorly a primate and birding destination with over 138 species of birds counting the Great Blue Turaco that you can watch on your nature walk.

Another common sanctuary in Uganda is the Ngamba Island Sanctuary which protects orphaned Chimpanzees.

4. Water Bodies in Uganda

There are various water bodies found within Africa’s Great Lakes region and you can explore them on a boat ride, kayaking, rafting, and fishing, among others.

Common water bodies in Uganda include River Nile, the world’s longest river, Lake Victoria, Lake Albert, Lake George, Lake Edward, Lake Kyoga, Murchison Falls, and Lake Bunyonyi near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, among others.

Uganda Hotels | Safari Lodges in Uganda | Where to Stay in Uganda

Best places to stay during the Uganda Safari Trips

Uganda safari lodges in national parks emit a sense of character, creating comfortable experiences in extraordinary locations to give you memorable stays.

Uganda hotels or safari lodges in Uganda are in 3 categories, namely budget, midrange, and luxury accommodation.

Luxury Safari Lodges in Uganda | Upmarket Uganda Hotels

Luxury lodges provide the best accommodation with high-end prices and services.

Below is a list of some of the best luxury safari lodges in Uganda;

·        Buhoma Lodge in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

·        Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge in Bwindi National Park

·        Chobe Safari Lodge in Murchison Falls National Park

·        Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

·        Mweya Safari Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park

·        Chameleon Hill Forest Lodge near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

·        Baker’s Lodge in Murchison Falls National Park

·        Primate Safari Lodge in Kibale Forest National Park

·        Lemala Wildwaters Lodge in Jinja

·        Kyangabi Crater Lodge in Kibale Forest National Park

Mid-range Safari Lodges in Uganda | Standard Uganda Hotels

Midrange safari lodges or standard Uganda hotels likewise provide you with comfort, tranquility, and amazing panoramic views.

They include;

·        Twiga Safari Lodge in Murchison Falls National Park

·        Engazi Game Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park

·        Pakuba Safari Lodge in Murchison Falls National Park

·        Murchison River Lodge in Murchison Falls National Park

·        Kidepo Savannah Lodge in Kidepo Valley National Park

·        Marafiki Safari Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park

·        Buffalo Safari Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park

·        Ichumbi Lodge in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

·        Bakiga Lodge in Bwindi National Park

·        Lake Bunyonyi Rock Resort

·        Kibale Forest Lodge in Kibale Forest National Park

Budget Safari Lodges in Uganda | Basic Uganda Hotels

Budget safari lodges in Uganda are the best for budget travelers. Most of them offer the thrill of a truly wild adventure.

Some of them include,

·        Simba Safari Camp in Queen Elizabeth National Park

·        Buhoma Community Rest Camp in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

·        Enjojo Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park

·        Rwenzori View Guest House in Kibale National Park

·        Trekkers Tavern Cottages in Bwindi National Park

·        Kibale Guest House in Kibale Forest National Park

·        Budongo Eco-lodge in Murchison Park

·        Apoka Rest Camp in Kidepo

·        Red Chill Rest Camp in Murchison Falls National Park

What to Wear in Uganda during Your Uganda Safari

For what to wear during your Uganda safari, below are the most appropriate dress code for your amazing Uganda tours.

This is what you can wear for your Uganda safari;

Light long-sleeved shirts and trousers: Light clothes that are not brightly colored are recommended. You can wear Khaki, brown, or green to help you blend with the environment. They will also protect your skin from the insects and itching plants in the field.

Light sturdy shoes: to protect your feet and for easier trekking especially on the slippery trails while for primate walks or nature walks, you will need strong and light sturdy shoes.

Cap or Hat: your head will be covered to protect you from the dangerous sun rays.

Sunglasses: Likewise, they will protect your eyes from the sun’s rays.

What to Pack for a Uganda Safari?

There are many important items that you ought to pack for your Uganda trips and some of them include the following.

Safari gadgets or equipment: These include mobile phones, cameras, and binoculars.

A waterproof day pack bag: This will help in protecting your belonging like the above-mentioned gadgets especially when you are in the field for your Uganda safari activities.

Insect repellent; this will keep dangerous and uncomfortable insects away from biting you.

Sunscreen; it will help to protect your skin from being burnt by the strong sun rays.

What is the Best Month to Visit Uganda?| When Should I Go to Uganda?

You can visit Uganda any time and season of the year. However, the best time to visit the country is in the dry season which is also the peak season. It is from December to February and June to August.

Expect little or no rainfall during this season and the tracks will always be dry and thus easily accessible to the different Uganda safari destinations without delays.

The savannah grasses will also be thin and short making all the wildlife views easier and Mountain Gorilla trekking and Chimpanzee tracking less challenging.

However, nature lovers will enjoy the amazing views that the wet season provides. The wet months are from March to May and September to November.

How Many Uganda Safari Parks Are There In Uganda?

There are 10 national parks in Uganda, making them one of the top Uganda safari destinations for all the wildlife experiences in both the savannah and forest parks.

Below are the 10 Uganda safari parks:

1.     Queen Elizabeth National Park

2.     Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

3.     Murchison Falls National Park

4.     Kibale National Park

5.     Lake Mburo National Park

6.     Rwenzori Mountains National Park

7.     Mgahinga Gorilla NP

8.     Kidepo National Park

9.     Mountain Elgon National Park

10. Semuliki National Park

How Much is a Tour in Uganda?| How Much is a Safari in Uganda? | How Much Does a Safari in Uganda Cost? | Is It Cheap to Visit Uganda?

The price of a Uganda safari is dependent on various factors which include the activities done, park entrance, number of days spent on the Uganda safari, mode of the transportation system, and whether it is a private tour or a group excursion.

Below are the average expenses for some of these factors:

Accommodation: $25 per day

Activities/Entrance Fees: $145 per day

Transportation: $15 per day

Food: $ 20 per day

The average amount of money spent on a Uganda safari per day is $205 a day per person. Thus, the minimum amount of money that every person will spend per day will be between $200 – $300.

Is Uganda Good for Safaris? | Is Uganda Worth Visiting?

Uganda is very good for safaris as there are various experiences to have during your tours and Uganda safari holidays.

You will enjoy amazing sights, forests, rivers, lakes, wildlife reserves, mountains, and game parks in Uganda, among others. The savannah parks will award you the best game viewing experiences.

There are also various Uganda safari activities that the country offers and they include game drives, mountain climbing, primate walks, bird watching, nature walk experiences, cultural encounters, community tours, and boat ride/boat cruise adventures in the parks and other destinations like the Lake Bunyonyi that you can enjoy in a single itinerary.

How Many Days Should I Spend in Uganda?

Due to the detailed and careful planning of your Uganda safari, visitors wonder how many days they should spend in Uganda. Uganda safari adventures go from between 2 to 30 days.

However, between 7 to 10 days are great for exploring major safari highlights of the country in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Kibale National Park.

What to Expect on a Safari in Uganda?

Expect the best Uganda safari holidays, exploring the unique wildlife, beautiful scenery, amazing vegetation covers, and generally loving people and their cultures.

Expect an amazing primate tour as you go for Mountain Gorilla tracking, Chimpanzee tracking, Golden Monkey tracking, and viewing other primates.

You will also explore the big 5 African animals in the savannah destinations for example Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kidepo NP, Lake Mburo National Park, and Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

In the above Uganda safari destinations, you will engage in various Uganda safari activities like game drives, boat cruises, nature walks, and birding.

Is Gorilla Trekking In Uganda Worth It?

Yes, Mountain Gorilla trekking in Uganda is worth it because you will meet Mountain Gorillas in the park that protects their highest number, that is, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Get to study their daily behaviors like feeding, and grooming.

Likewise, Gorilla tracking is also worth it because the funds collected are used for the conservation of these humble primates and also to support the local communities.

Is Uganda Safe to Visit for a Uganda Safari?

Uganda is one of the safest countries to visit in Africa. Natives are welcoming and friendly and the different destinations are also safe and sound for travel.

Armed rangers will always accompany you for your Uganda safari activities to ensure your safety.

List of the Best Tour Operators in Uganda | Big Safari Companies in Uganda

The best tour operators will help to organize your day trip and memorable tours from your pick up from the airport to your departure after the Uganda safari.

Below are the best Uganda tour operators to use for your Uganda safari:

1.     Prime Safaris And Tours Ltd

2.     Wild Gorilla Safaris

3.     Safari Uganda Safaris

4.     Uganda Birding Safaris

5.     A Uganda Safari

6.     Gorilla trekking Uganda

7.     Gorilla Safaris And Tours

8.     Africa Safaris Tours

Popular Uganda Tor Packages /Best Uganda Tours and Safaris

Various Uganda safari packages feature some of the top attractions and Uganda safari activities that will avail you of the best safari memories. They will lead you to some amazing destinations including Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, and many others.

These Uganda safari packages form an itinerary that begins with an Entebbe Airport pickup, airport transfers, and transportation through the different destinations and drop off at the end of the Uganda tour.

Below are the best Uganda safari packages;

       i. 2 Day Trip – Murchison Falls National Park Uganda Safari Tour

     ii. 2 Days Chimpanzee Trekking Uganda Safari

  iii. 3 Days Murchison Falls National Park Uganda Safari Tour

   iv. 3 Days Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda Kibale National Park

     v. 4 Days Uganda Safari, Chimpanzee Trekking, Wildlife Uganda Safari Tour

   vi. 5 Days Uganda Primates Safari – Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi National Park And Chimpanzee Trekking Tour in Kibale National Park

vii.  5 Days Uganda Safari –Chimpanzee Trekking and Wildlife Safari Viewing

viii.  7 Days Luxury Fishing Safari in Uganda

   ix. 7 Days Uganda Safari

     x. 8 Days Uganda Wildlife Safari

   xi. 9 Days Nile Perch Fishing Safari in Uganda

xii.  9 Days Uganda Tour

xiii. 10 Day Trip- Best of Uganda Safari

xiv. 12 Days Uganda Safari

 xv. 14 Days Uganda Safari

xvi. 15 Days Uganda Safari Vacation

xvii. 16 Days Uganda Safari Trip

xviii. 18 Days Uganda Safari Tour

Uganda safaris tours will thus give you the ultimate African holidays to remember for a lifetime. Explore amazing primates when you track Mountain Gorillas and Chimpanzees, go for a Kampala city tour, engage in game drives and bird watching, and also visit various cultures. Uganda tours are thus very enjoyable, with endless excitement.

Inquire today for amazing Uganda safari holidays, book your Uganda tour, and get to enjoy the beautiful experience that the country offers.

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